Lagos Taskforce Arrests 63 Okada Riders for Violating Ban in Restricted Areas
Story written by okafor joseph (Dated July 19, 2025)
Lagos Taskforce Clamps Down on Okada Riders, Arrests 63 for Operating in Restricted Zones
The Lagos State Environmental and Special Offences Enforcement Unit, widely known as the Lagos Taskforce, has arrested 63 commercial motorcycle riders (popularly called Okada riders) for violating the state government’s ban on Okada operations in designated areas.
The operation, which was conducted on July 19, 2025, was a joint effort involving the Taskforce and other security agencies. The coordinated crackdown targeted notorious hotspots including Mile 2 Oke Bridge, Mile 2 Under Bridge, Berger Suya, Amuwo Odofin, and Apple Junction in Festac.
Lagos Taskforce Moves to Reinforce Okada Ban
Chairman of the Taskforce, CSP Adetayo Akerele, confirmed the arrests and reiterated the agency’s commitment to enforcing the state’s traffic and safety laws.
“We will not allow a few individuals to endanger the lives and safety of millions of Lagosians. The ban on Okada in selected areas is a deliberate policy to secure lives and property. Anyone who violates it will face legal consequences,” Akerele stated.
According to the Taskforce, all 63 motorcycles were impounded during the operation, and legal actions are being initiated against the offenders.
Defiance Despite Warnings
Despite repeated awareness campaigns, public notices, and sensitization drives, some Okada operators have continued to flout the regulations. The Lagos State Government has, therefore, intensified enforcement efforts to send a clear message of zero tolerance for lawlessness.
THEMES PLUS Agenda on Safety and Security
The clampdown is part of the broader THEMES PLUS development agenda of the Lagos State Government, which prioritizes traffic management, security, and public safety.
CSP Akerele further advised all Okada riders to adhere strictly to operational boundaries and only operate in approved zones to avoid arrest, fines, or possible prosecution.
“Lagos is a mega city, and we must maintain law and order on our roads. Compliance with the Okada ban is non-negotiable,” he warned.
Residents Urged to Support Enforcement
Authorities are also appealing to residents to cooperate with security operatives by reporting illegal Okada operations and avoiding patronizing commercial motorcycles in banned locations.
Published by SpringnewsNG Media Limited
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